James’s Foot and Back Get Special Attention in 76ers Camp

LeBron James is receiving special attention for chronic arthritis in his left foot and his lower back as he prepares for his first season with the Philadelphia 76ers, according to reporting by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. The severity of the conditions and whether they will affect James’s availability this season remain unclear. McMenamin reported that James’s lower back is being monitored after sciatica sidelined him for the first month of the previous season with the Los Angeles Lakers. James ultimately played 60 games that season. The reports do not establish whether either condition will cause him to miss games this year. James is entering his 24th NBA season. During training camp, his longtime trainer, Mike Mancias, has worked with him on stretching, activation exercises and treatment before practice, according to McMenamin’s account. The routine includes attention to both the left foot and lower back. The reports describe preparation and maintenance, but provide no medical assessment, prognosis or specific treatment plan. Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse has said the team discussed managing the workloads of James and center Joel Embiid, including planning for back-to-back games.